Director of Student Services - Southbridge Public Schools

Southbridge Public Schools serve approximately 2,000 students across six schools—and we are in the midst of an exciting and measurable transformation. With support from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, we’re seeing real gains in student achievement and school culture. Twice recognized as a Gold-Level PBIS District, we’re proud of the academic growth our students are demonstrating and the positive momentum building across K–12. This progress is fueled by passionate educators, high-quality curriculum, targeted professional development, and an unwavering commitment to our students.

Many of our learners face significant challenges, but our educators don’t see limits—they see potential. We are a team that believes in the power of high expectations, strong relationships, and consistent support to drive student success. As we continue to accelerate our progress, we’re seeking educators who are committed, reflective, and ready to collaborate in a learning-focused, student-centered environment.

If you’re ready to make a meaningful difference and grow as part of a dedicated team, consider building your career with Southbridge Public Schools.

Southbridge Public Schools - Director of Student Services

Job Description

Position Summary

The Director of Student Services provides districtwide leadership and oversight of K–12 special education and student support services. This role ensures compliance with all state and federal requirements (IDEA, Section 504, McKinney-Vento) while promoting equitable access to high-quality instruction, inclusive practices, and whole-child supports for all students.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for K–12 special education programming, including oversight of IEP and 504 plan development, implementation, and compliance.
• Ensure adherence to all applicable state and federal laws and regulations, including IDEA, Section 504, and McKinney-Vento.
• Supervise, evaluate, and support special education staff, related service providers, and specialists.
• Oversee evaluations, assessments, eligibility determinations, and placement decisions.
• Design and deliver professional development for staff related to special education, inclusive practices, and student supports.
• Collaborate with principals, administrators, educators, families, and community partners to support student success.
• Coordinate with the Department of Children and Families (DCF) and other external agencies to support students and families.
• Oversee and monitor McKinney-Vento cases to ensure compliance and coordinated services for students experiencing homelessness.
• Support equitable access to academic advising, college and career readiness, social-emotional learning, and mental health services.
• Promote positive school climates, inclusive learning environments, and student resilience.
• Support effective transitions for students across grade levels, programs, and postsecondary pathways.
• Analyze data to inform programming, staffing, and service delivery decisions.
• Serve as a key member of the district leadership team, contributing to districtwide planning and continuous improvement efforts.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience as a Special Education Supervisor or in a comparable district-level or school-based special education leadership role.
• Valid Massachusetts Pupil Personnel Director or Supervisor Administrator License.
• Valid Massachusetts SEI Endorsement or grade-level appropriate ESL License.
• Meet all state and federal requirements to be fully licensed and Highly Qualified.
• Current authorization to work in the United States (candidates must have authorization by their first day of employment).

Preferred:

• Experience in urban, high-poverty, and/or turnaround school settings.
• Academic background (major or minor) in Special Education or a related field (e.g., psychology, special education).
• Certification in a related special education field (e.g., Moderate Disabilities, Severe Disabilities).
• Demonstrated experience with English Language Development (ELD) and Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) instructional practices.
• Bilingual proficiency (Spanish/English) strongly preferred.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Southbridge Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, sex, gender identity, disability, religion, age, or sexual orientation.